april 2015

MADISONAPRIL 2015 C O U N T Y

Opposite AlluresAssembling

Getting to KnowGarden Mama

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4 | MADISON COUNTY MAGAZINE

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FEATURESAPRIL

2015

22 LIVING LUXE IN LOST RABBIT Where Life Often Feels Like Vacation

27 ASSEMBLING OPPOSITE ALLURESMixed Palettes of Preference Create Humble Perfection

31 BRINGING BABY HOMEA Look Inside Wilson’s Nursery

On the Cover:Rustic, yet refined, the kitchen in

Jason and Angela Young’s home is warm and welcoming for all who

dine. See Living Luxe in Lost Rabbit p. 22.

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A custom-made daybed and silver leaf cigar table make the living room functional with a pop. See Assembling Opposite Allures p. 27

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DEPARTMENTSLIFE OF LEISURE

SOUTH BOUND

A SOUTHERLY COMFORT

14 ShoppingSt. Paddy’s Party

16 MusicJason Turner

17 Art

Q&A with Jaclyn Petty

19 FoodNot Your Ordinary Oyster Bar

35 Gardening MRA Gardens of Madison County

38 Garden MamaGetting to Know Nellie Neal

47 Plant a Tree in Celebration of Arbor Day

IN EVERY ISSUE

9 Editor’s Letter

41 Events Listing

45 Book SigningIn An Enemy’s Country

by Jim Fraiser

SIGHTS & SCENES

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The mirrors in the the bathroom are pretty as a pearl at Saltine Oyster Bar, Fondren’s latest addition. See Not Your Ordinary Oyster Bar p. 19

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April is back! My most favorite month of all is welcomed back again with open arms. Sunshine, songbirds, celebrations and smiles as

big as the setting sun over the ceaseless Delta land. There is not much about April that doesn’t bring a

smile to my face in excitement and anticipation. One thing I love about this time of year that you may have already picked up on is that it is time to dig in the dirt. Yes, I’m sure I could be proactive and start in March but that would take some of the fun out of procrastination and ”waiting on that last freeze.” Waiting until April allows plenty of time for researching and planning the veggie garden, designing the prettiest planters, and contemplating replanting all the beds destroyed by the one-and-a-half year old, 85 pound, golden bundle ball of blissful terror who has taken his toil on the plants in his path and place of cool comfort.

Ah, April is back and it’s time for the peace of planting and watching it grow.

April and springtime, often mean cleaning and projects inside as well. A clean and straightened home with a slight facelift — whether a new picture hung on the wall, the addition of a new fruit bowl for fresh veggies, a fun accent on the coffee table or paint on the walls — always elicits a simple smile of satisfaction.

This issue has been so much fun, refreshing and the perfect escape from the rainy, cold, winter blues. From luxe living in Lost Rabbit to the most precious, hip hideout for a young couple’s firstborn, this issue has pages packed with beautiful living both inside and out.

Meet a new friend, Nellie Neal “The Garden Mama,” whose knowledge and heart for plants and people have brightened and enlightened my days and knowledge for taking care of the earth entrusted to us. A kind soul you can get to know here and each week on her radio show.

Never lacking in good fun and good tunes, I hope you enjoy April and Madison County Magazine’s Home and Gardens issue as much as I do.

Happy planting, peeps!

EDITOR’S LETTERApril means springtime is in full swing. Time to take advantage and bask in all of

the beauty that we call home!

THE OUTDOORS ISSUE IS SNEAKING UP AND I CAN’T WAIT TO MEET SOME NEW FURRY FRIENDS! START SENDING YOUR

BELOVED MASTERS OF THE OUTDOORS ASAP.

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APRIL 2015

PUBLISHED BY The Madison County Journal

PUBLISHERJames E. Prince III

ASSOCIATE EDITOR & PUBLISHERMichael Simmons

EDITORPrice Rosson

LAYOUT & DESIGNRachel Browning

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

David Wiggins, Chris Todd

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSDuncan Dent

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Alexandra Anthony [email protected]

(601) 853-4222

ADVERTISING DESIGNGodfrey Jones

Madison County Magazine is a monthly supplement to the Madison County Journal designed to promote Madison County in an informative and positive

manner. We welcome contributions of articles and photos; however, they will be subject to editing

and availability of space and subject matter. Photographs, comments, questions, subscription requests and ad placement inquiries are invited!

Return envelopes and postage must accompany all labeled materials submitted if a return is requested. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The

opinions expressed in Madison County Magazine are those of the authors or columnists and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products of services herein. We reserve the rift to refuse any

and all advertising. Subscribe to the magazine by subscribing to the Journal,

mymcj.com, or call the office at (601) 853-4222 © 2010 Madison County Publishing Company.

MADISONC O U N T Y

Madison County Magazine’sCommunity

Board SSWE NEED YOU!!!

Here are a few chances to get involved with and see yourself in Madison County Magazine.

FURRY FRIENDSSubmit your pets because they deserve some loving too.

STARTING ANEW We wanna meet your kiddos.

GOING TO THE CHAPEL It’s never too early to submit your weddings. (601)853-4222

[email protected]

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One of the first sunsets of spring settles behind a tree line off of Highway 22 in between Flora and Canton. A subtle hint of

flora as the trees begin to blossom reminds us to appreciate all things big and small, closing out another day to the beautiful

beginning of this short Mississippi season.

ALL THINGS, EVEN WHAT SOME MAY CONSIDER WEEDS, I THINK ARE BEAUTIFUL AND HAVE A PURPOSE.

~“Garden Mama” Nellie Neal Phot

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SHOPPING

**Go to our Facebook page and like our giveaway photo for a chance to win fresh spring flora from Callaway’s Yard & Garden and a free subscription for Madison County Magazine to be mailed to your home each month!

give-AWAY

The Formula to a Coffee Table

Oddball object Choose some sculptural and quirky to express a little personality. Flower Candle Votive Relish, $12

Add a Tray Use a tray to combine a collection of items. Place it off-center to start your stacking. Relish, $95

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Custom-made Coffee Table Handmade here in Madison County, Cole Ellis will specialize the perfect coffee table for your space. Paint Horse [email protected] (601) 573-6992, $300 custom pricing

Something Fresh Add a little life and change of season to your coffee table like these festive spring tulips. Your local florist, market price

A Little Height These aqua decorative vessels are a great addition for a little height and a pop of color. Velvet, $56 & $58

Stack Some Books A stackable staple coffee table books are a must. If you missed these this past holiday season here are a few of the latest local greats! Lemuria Jackson Photographs by Ken Murphy, $75 Mississippi’s Greatest Athletes by Rick Cleveland, $38


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At first glance Jason Turner has a serious presence, bearded and fairly

tall, he can really fill out a room, which is shockingly counterbalanced, by his warm, often described as country tinged, voice.

“I get that country thing a lot, but I don’t see it. I don’t really even like a lot of country to be honest,” Turner said.

Turner is a musician, artist and family man that lives in Madison. Blessed with an affinity for music and drawing at an early age, Turner said it helped him survive a troubled childhood and eventually cope with the lasting traumas.

“I hate to use the cliché about art being therapy but sometimes there is not a better way to say it.”

Turner started singing at an early age and has always had and interest in music, but he said he remembers it clicked for him when he first heard Pearl Jam.

“That music really spoke to me,” Turner said.Turner’s earlier music reflected the darker

sensibilities of the music he was listening to, but lately he said he getting away from those nineties influences moving into something “more upbeat.”

“I’m bringing funkier vibes,” Turner said. “You can really here whatever I’ve been listening to at the time come out in my music. It’s been a lot of hip hop, funk and soul lately.”

While he may have exorcised demons and found a sunnier outlook in music, Turner said it is the art that really keeps his head on straight. “It’s how I deal with things.”

He said he slowed down with the art after he had his first kid and he noticed how much

he craved the release he got from listening to music and painting in his studio late at night.

“I have to be creating. The art really helps fill in the gaps when I’m not working on new music.”

His art, like his music, has deep roots into his childhood and can be seen on his new website jasonturnerillustration.com.

Strangely, Turner has never used his own work for an album cover until now. For his first tow albums he said he had tried to emulate album covers of other artists he was inspired by including the iconic Springsteen-esque back-facing-with-a-guitar-slung-low-shot. Those other covers certainly show who aspired to be, but this one finally shows who he is.

For this album Turner signed a publishing deal with Malaco records, who will also help distribute his previous albums, and has worked closely with producer Kent Bruce.

“He is like my editor. He really helps me tame my train of thought.”

Turner said he works heavily form his head, trying to see the big picture and get it recorded. This motivates him to get better and improve the way he writes and plays music.

You can check out Turner’s music on his website jasonturnerband.com and if you like what you here you can see him perform his one man show live at the Burning Bales album release party Friday, April 10 at Hal and Mal’s in Jackson. Tickets are $5 and $10 at the door. Also don’t forget to check out Turner’s web comic series, “Goodbye, Mason” updated every Monday at googbyemason.com

Jason Turnerby Duncan Dent

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Jaclyn PettyQ&A

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TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF.

I was born in Tampa, Florida but I grew up in Madison with my parents and two older brothers. I went to high school at Madison Central and then moved to Starkville to attend college at Mississippi State University (Hail State!) where I graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Fine Arts with an emphasis in Graphic Design.

WHERE DO YOUR ARTISTIC INTERESTS BEGIN?

I have always loved the design/art world and consider myself extremely right-brained. Going into some sort of art field was a no brainer. I felt like Graphic Design was the best option for me because it combined a lot of media into one degree. I felt it was a smart decision that would equip me with skills that could get me a job post graduation. When I graduated in May 2012, after applying endlessly for design jobs, I spontaneously applied for a position at a 5 star hunting and fly fishing lodge in Savery, Wyoming. Within a day, I was interviewed, hired, and found myself driving cross-country to my new home for 8 months. Long story short - I then moved back home with my parents where I continued the hunt for a job in my field. I kept coming up empty-handed. That’s when I really got into painting for more than a hobby. It pretty much started with a couple of watercolor birds for my parents house (my biggest fans) then it kind of grew from there.

I have a few extended family members that dabbled in the art world so I feel like that same interest has trickled down to me. The only things that I was really taught are different painting techniques and mediums in college. After that you kind of grow to love certain ones.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST “BIG” MOMENT AS AN ARTIST?

I had a proud moment my freshman year of college in my Drawing I class.

We were assigned to draw a 19x25 self portrait with pastels — that’s a big portrait. We worked on this for about a month and I remember feeling so great when we finished because it turned out to look exactly like me! That was a really big moment for me.

HOW LONG HAVE YOUR BEEN WORKING AT YOUR CURRENT ENDEAVOR?

When I moved back in with my parents after Wyoming, mine and my brothers graduation photos from high school were still framed in our hallway... I just couldn’t look at them anymore! So, I asked my mom if I were to find something to put in those frames, could we please put that embarrassment away. I ended up painting three watercolor birds to fill those frames. After that it became an outlet. I kept my watercolors out and kept painting.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT PAINTING?

The joy of seeing a vision or idea translated onto paper is why I love painting. “Where words fail, colors and strokes convey.” It is a way of connecting with your inner self. And more often than not, we remain surprised with what we see.

I was recently commissioned to do watercolor houses for a few clients for Christmas presents. As tedious and challenging as they are to paint, I really fell in love with working on these pieces. Combining the architectural elements with the soft texture of watercolor is an exciting process and helps make each area of the painting feel different. The finished product is extremely rewarding!

DO YOU USE OTHER MEDIUMS? WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE?

I love all mediums except for oil paints. You have to be extremely patient when painting with oil. Each time I’ve tried I just end up covered in paint.

DO YOU COMMISSION PAINTINGS?

I have painted a lot of different subjects from flowers to foxes and even the occasional family pet! Cowbells and Rebels have been really popular during graduation and around the holidays. I love painting watercolor birds because they all end up different and end up being really special and original.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR BEST SELLERS AT DIFFERENT TIMES OF THE YEAR?

I paint a lot of Mississippi’s year-round and I even get other state requests.

I do a lot of commission work because it’s hard for me to hang on to inventory. I feel extremely blessed that people love my work and maybe one day I can do this full time!

HOW DO PEOPLE GET IN TOUCH WITH YOU?

[email protected]

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by Price Rosson

We all know that Fondren is one of the most unique and incredible places to visit, eat and shop in the metro area.

With each trip to this funky neighborhood, there is always something new to see and do. A most welcomed and recent addition to the neighborhood is Jesse and Rachel Houston’s Saltine Oyster Bar. Unique creation, innovation and a playful modern twist on the region’s long-lasting love of the seafood industry is the foundation for Fondren’s freshest new restaurant.

Self-taught in his father’s kitchen through his younger years in Texas, Jesse Houston grew up cooking for himself. His young love of cooking eventually led him to culinary school and finally landed him in Jackson playing a part in opening Parlor Market with the late Craig Noone.

Jesse and his wife Rachel, realized the metro area’s love of seafood and made the decision to open Saltine. The first restaurant the couple has solely owned, Jesse is the brains behind the innovative ingredients and modern twist on classic comfort Southern dishes. Rachel is the creative eye behind the combination of nautical accents, incorporating repurposed items from the old schoolhouse adding homegrown detail to embrace the food and feel of a classic gastropub and oyster house. Clean and simple the white tile walls are accented with warm wood tones, drawing focus to murals by artist Justin Schultz.

The food and drink are served on antique plates from naval ships and old-fashioned beer engine equipment. Oysters are a focus of the fare featuring raw and specialty dishes from all over the country. Houston and his staff work to educate guests on the differences, allowing you to prepare your plates with anywhere from one to a dozen of the same or differing oysters. Plenty of other options take a lively and unique twist on the areas staples with the gastropub take, including hushpuppies, crispy pork crackling and catfish and caviar. Keep a look out for the all of the specials because you never know where this playful innovator will take your palette.

The beer menu boasts over 31 taps and a long list of bottles from which to choose. Celebrating craft beer, this menu has plenty to wet your whistle.

The Houstons value continuing education while learning and growing from the other brilliant people in the field. On April 6th, Houston will bring a taste of Seattle to the metro area by way of Chef Renee Erickson. Erickson, a 2014 James Beard Award finalist, will provide a six-course dinner for a set fee at Saltine.

“Hey, we’re here! Come and eat with us,” Jesse exclaims. Get out and explore new places like Saltine Oyster Bar this spring. A pleasureful and playful experience for the palette that is sure not to disappoint.

FONDREN’S FRESHEST NEW ADDITION

NOT YOUR ORDINARY

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ALABAMA WHITE BARBECUE OYSTERS

Start to finish: 45 minutesServings: 4

• 1 dozen fresh gulf oysters, shucked and on the half shell

• Rock salt• White barbecue Sauce

(see recipe below)• 1 tablespoon minced chives• Lemon wedges

Preheat the oven to highest setting, or 500 degrees. In a large oven-safe pan, pour enough rock salt to cover the bottom of the pan. Place the oysters on top of the rock salt, pressing them firmly into the salt so they sit upright and do not spill. Add a spoonful of white barbecue sauce on top of each oyster, enough to cover the meat. Place the pan in the oven and allow to bake until the sauce begins to brown completely.

Once caramelized, pull the oysters out of the oven. Sprinkle with minced chives and serve with lemon wedges.

White BBQ Sauce:

• 2 cups mayonnaise• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar• ¼ cup lemon juice• 1 tablespoon apple juice• 1 ½ tablespoons garlic powder• 1 ½ tablespoon prepared horseradish• 1 ½ tablespoon ground black pepper• 1 ½ teaspoon mustard powder• ¼ teaspoon salt• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and whisk together well. Set aside until ready to add to the oysters.

(Recipe by Saltine executive chef Jesse Houston.)

CRAB AND AVOCADO TOAST

Start to finish: 45 minutesServings: 4

• 1 avocado, diced• 2 ounces jumbo lump crab meat,

shells picked through and removed• 2 tablespoons citrus vinaigrette

(see recipe)• Salt, to taste• 1 baguette, cut on a bias into 4 thick

slices

Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet. In a medium mixing bowl, add the diced avocado, crab meat, citrus vinaigrette and salt. Using a spoon, mix the ingredients well, being careful not to break the avocado or crab up, but coating them thoroughly. Spoon a generous amount of the crab and avocado mixture onto each baguette slice.

Place the bread in the oven on broil until the avocado starts to brûlée. Remove from the oven and serve.

Citrus Vinaigrette:

• 1 orange, zested and juiced• 2 lemons, zested and juiced• 2 limes, zested and juiced• ½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar• 2 tablespoons honey• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard• 1 teaspoon kosher salt• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves,

minced• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper• 1 ½ cups canola oil

In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except the canola oil. While whisking steadily, slowly add the oil slowly to emulsify.

(Recipe by Saltine executive chef Jesse Houston.)

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LIVING LUXE IN

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FEATURE

The elegant entryway opens the doors to a vacation here at home in Madison County.

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When Jason and Angela Young had house fire in their old neighborhood they found a rental in Lost Rabbit as

a temporary home while they figured out what was next. Not expecting to stay, the allure of Lost Rabbit took hold and now for years they have called it home.

“We have always loved this area and as it was being developed we would ride down here in fascination over the vision,” says Jason.

A spectacular and distinct facet of Lost Rabbit is the classic, timeless and enduring architecture of the homes. Each home is built with unique detail, making it its own, embracing an old-town Virginian feel.

“Our house was designed by the late Michael Barranco, one of the most outstanding architects in Mississippi,” Jason specifies. “There is every bit of detail down to the exposed-brick wall and wood used for extra detail of exposed beams upstairs and on the porch that came from the coast after Katrina.”

The Youngs’ two-story home has several rooms overlooking the Ross Barnett Reservoir. An outside brick patio is perfect for entertaining family and friends.

With a recent resurgence in the neighborhood, Jason is confident and excited about the potential growth and revitalization that is underway.

Lost Rabbit provides access outside your door to 33,000-square-feet of Reservoir water for fishing,

Elegant views from the porches will forever overlook the Reservoir.

The quintessential patio for entertaining and enjoying the outdoors

Unique details in the architecture abound throuhgout the house, including the exposed beams in the living room.

The soothing master suite offers spectacular sunrises over the Reservoir in the morning.

The built-in shelves allow for an impressive display of Jason’s collections and prized possessions.

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boating and kayaking. On the other end there is natural protection without the threat of encroaching development due to the Natchez Trace, two of Mississippi’s most magnificent natural amenities.

“This side of the Reservoir offers the most spectacular sunrises in the morning, a constant southerly breeze, and the protection of the trees from the sun in the afternoon, the hottest part of the day. We enjoy the outdoors throughout the majority of the year,” Jason adds.

Soon to break ground, Lost Rabbit has plans in the works for a 2,500-square-foot resort-style pool at the marina with the back boundary the marina bay and to the front the Reservoir proper with a sand beach. The new amenity for all homeowners to enjoy will include an outdoor kitchen for watching games and cooking, which opens up to a formal lawn with an amphitheater that almost sits on the water.

“Oftentimes when we go on vacation, we question why we left in the first place,” Jason laughs, while headed out the door for crappie catching with his son.

Lost Rabbit offers Madison County a unique, old-world classic lifestyle surrounded in God’s natural allure where neighbors are family and porches and patios are made for sitting. A kitchen fit for a queen!

The dining area within the kitchen offers elegant views of the patio leading to the gardens.

The exposed brick is a rustic, yet refined detail.

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by Price Rosson

Mixed Palettes of Preference Create Humble Perfection

AssemblingOpposite Allures

This two-tier chandelier of glass beads and capiz shells is one of the latest installations to the home, adding a focal point of glitz and glamour in the couple’s kitchen.

FEATURE


Cool and calming colors combined with the custom-made daybed of lime green with peacock feather accent pillows provide the family the open and airy feel.

The metallic leather ottoman allows for durable and functional, yet glamorous living for the family room.

The chandelier and prized oyster canvas painted by a family member accentuate the dining area within the kitchen for a classic combination of old and new.

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As they say, opposites attract. According to GLO designer Danielle Lewing the opposite personalities and color pattern

preferences of this couple combined to make one of the easiest and most fun projects to work on. An outgoing personality who prefers cool and calming tones fused with a more reserved personality that loves the fun pops of color combo have begun the remodel perfectly tailored to the wants and needs of this family.

It began as the lady of the house was shopping in GLO Design Studio for the perfect piece for the entryway. By chance she met Danielle, creating a partnership helping to bring comfort to the couples Calumet home.

Hard to picture the wood frame, gold-and-silver-leafed drawer Bernhardt Aurelia chest, Danielle suggested, “Let’s try it out.”

Danielle brought the first piece over and from there the relationship grew.

The husband, wife, designer trio are slowly but surely making their way through the house.

After the Aurelia chest, Danielle added an elegant sitting bench in the foyer with two bolsters accented with metallic leather. Above the foyer bench hangs a silver leaf mirror with a greek key pattern.

Recently Danielle, was given the task to wipe the living room slate clean and start over. The main request was comfort and no tall furniture to add to the light and airy living space.

Danielle’s main goal as a designer is to listen

and understand the needs of the homeowners. That she did.

The new living space is a pleasureful combination of the preferences of the couple. The neutral gray tones of the new couch and swivel chairs are family and pet friendly allowing for the room to feel open with access to all angles.

The twitter pillows make the swivel chairs pop balancing the most fun piece in the room, the lime green custom made day bed. Inspiration drawn from the wife’s peacock pillows the pop of color is complete with a little glitz on the pillows.

The silver leaf cigar table allows any easy transition from working on a laptop to a convenient end table.

Danielle simplified the built-in cabinets, as the trend today leads to less on the shelves, leaving and rearranging the most special pieces to the family.

Danielle created focal points on the walls with the family’s prized art collection, most of which was painted by family members.

Another recent addition to the ever-evolving home includes in the two-tier chandelier made of glass beads and capiz shells.

The creative combination of lead by Danielle and confirmed by the homeowners has united the many thoughts, ideas and desires that help call their house a home. The quintessential combination of modern and classic, neutral and bright has tailor-made the furnishings to fill this happy home.

The Aurelia chest allows for the abstract painting — painted by a family member — to pop between the mercury glass lamps from GLO Design Studio.

The silver-leaf greek key mirror above the leather metallic foyer bench are a fun and funky welcome to the home.

Swivel chairs in the family room allow for access to all angles when relaxing after a long day’s work. The twitter pillows give a fun pop of color.

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Baby Wilson was blessed with the love of his parents Laurel and Price Donahoo long before he was born. Outside of the infinite endearment of these first time parents, Baby Wilson was also set

up with the hippest of hideouts to call his own. Mom and Dad worked hand-in-hand to create the perfect nursery to welcome home the most perfect bundle of joy.

Initial inspiration came from cool and calming neutral tones with precise pops of color throughout. Accenting the wall with the crib, a wooded wallpaper gives the room an immediate focal point. The Moroccan inspired rug, color and pattern made Laurel’s heart “skip a beat” when she found the piece that ties the room together. The swivel rocking chair was a must-have for Mama.

Giving life to the room, Laurel’s modern and eclectic style shines in all of the accents throughout the nursery. Pooling resources of creativity from local and national design companies, Laurel exercised her extensive experience in design. She even put her flawless and fun touches of DIY to the test creating the drapery, drapery hardware and the mobile.

by Price Rosson

Wilson Donahoo’s Warm Welcome

BRINGING HOME BABY

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The swivel rocking chair was a must-have for Mama.


A reminder of all blessings from above, the “coisrig” Endeavor Neon sign is Gaelic for “set apart,” a piece of the passage from Jeremiah1:5.

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Jeremiah 1:5 says, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.” From this verse chosen for sweet Wilson, Laurel and Price created one of the most fun and funky touches to the nursery. A specialized Endeavour Neon sign hangs above the changing table illuminating the word, “coisrig,” Gaelic for “set apart.” A brilliantly beautiful touch to the room, created in Laurel’s handwriting is a constant reminder of the blessing from above.

A menagerie of animals hangs on the walls and are comfort in the crib. Finally, no room would be complete without the Fig tree flora to brighten the room.

Set apart before he was born, Baby Wilson is very blessed to settle into the comfort of his home and nursery designed by Laurel and assembled by Price. The husband and wife team of two created the quintessential space, warm and welcoming, for their blessing from above to call home.

The beginnings of a library for Baby Wilson.

A mobile made by Mama.

A racoon watching over the entryway to the newborn’s nursery.

A menagerie of animals are a perfect combination with the wooded accent wall.

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Don’t miss one of the South’s best garden tours! GARDENS OF MADISON COUNTY

MRAMay 2-3, 2015

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An outdoor entertaining area with fireplace at the home of Tonya and Dean DeRuiter in Knightsbridge.


The 21st Annual Gardens of Madison County, a community-wide event benefiting Madison-Ridgeland Academy, will begin with the annual

Garden Party, sponsored by BankPlus on Friday, May 1, 2015. The Gardens tour opens Saturday, May 2, from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sunday, May 3, from noon - 5 p.m.

The tour will showcase eight magnificent gardens and landscapes in Madison County. This year includes waterfront properties, as well as ideas for new construction and urban gardening. There will be tablescapes, presentations from celebrity chefs, book signings, and garden tips, as well as demonstrations to make your garden spectacular.

As you tour the homes, be sure to stop by the MRA campus to shop at the Gardens Market and enjoy a fresh lunch or snack at our Gardens Café, sponsored by Trustmark. Over 40 vendors will be on the MRA campus at the Gardens Market selling original art, collectibles, and items for your home and garden. Stop by the Garden Café on campus to grab a delicious lunch provided by Fresh Cut Catering.

The Gardens tour has been named one of Southern Living’s Top 10 Garden Tours of the South, and is one of the Metro areas most successful springtime events. You will not want to miss this opportunity to view all of the lovely gardens on the tour route and learn more about various aspects of gardening.

For more information and a full list of events, visit the website: www.mragardens.com

An outdoor potting shed located at the home of Mollie and Chris Doty in Wright's Mill.

Spectacular views of the water and gardens at Gail and John Pittman's home located in Overlook Pointe.

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I think every garden needs a mama you can talk to about it,” Nellie Neal says with a smile. That is

exactly who she is to many. Famously coined the “Garden Mama,” this writer, horticulturalist, friend, daughter, wife, Mama — and most recently adding Grandmama — wears many hats on a daily basis.

Nellie grew up in the gardens and natural flora from Louisiana to Mississippi. Gardening was second nature, but her aspirations to be a writer came in a “rare moment of wisdom” standing in a classroom doorway taking advice from her own Mama. Five years old and dressed as Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz for a storybook showcase, someone asked Nellie what she wanted to be when she grew up.

Confidently, this five-year-old in ruby red slippers said, “A writer.”

Her Mama then looked down at her and said, “You better do some living f irst, baby, or you won’t have anything to say.”

A formal education from Louisiana State University, Nellie completed an interdisciplinary degree in English and Horticulture.

Continually taking the advice from her Mama, Nellie has enough living under her belt to fill the pages of many books, including her most recent accomplishment, her first solo authorship, The Nonstop Color Garden: Design Flowering Landscapes & Gardens for Year-round Enjoyment.

“I love radio! It’s a high wire,” she laughs. Garden Mama’s “Weekend Gardening” show Saturday mornings on SuperTalk is always a highlight of her

GardenMama

week. “Gardening’s popularity continues to

grow. I have the opportunity to take all of these years’ experience and knowledge of horticulture and translate it into useful information for others about interests that we share. The fact that they think I am smart enough to give them advice is like grace from God and a gift that I will never ever get over,” she says.

So much life in bloom left to live, Garden Mama’s grace and gratitude for things that grow is abounding and love for people even more.

When asked what is the best piece of advice, Garden Mama could go for days. Ultimately, it depends on the gardener. Most importantly, “Never miss a day,” she adds.

Never miss a day with your plants, whether indoors, outdoors on acres or in containers. The minute of solitude can do great things for you, and can be even better for your flora.

With many books under her belt, columns, a weekly SuperTalk radio show and much more, many may wonder how does she do it. With a big list off to the side and a daily list of three, she tackles the tasks that allow this nationally-acclaimed Mississippian to share the knowledge and experience of a lifetime in the garden.

Getting to Know Nellie Nealby Price Rosson

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EVENTSFUN-RAISERS APRIL 2, 6:00 P.M. Cosmos and Couture benefitting Mississippi Burn Foundation Old Capitol Inn (601) 540-2995

APRIL 3, 5:00 P.M.Zoo BrewJackson Zoo jacksonzoo.org/events

APRIL 4, 7:00 A.M.“Kool to Aid” Kids 5k Walk/Run benefitting Boys & Girls Club of Central Mississippi Boys & Girls Club of Central Mississippi, Capitol Unit(601) 850-8392 & (601) 613-5449

APRIL 4, 9:00 A.M. Bunny Brunch Mississippi Children’s Museummcm.ms

APRIL 4, 9:00 A.M. Breakfast with the Easter Bunny Jackson Zoo jacksonzoo.org/events

APRIL 11, 8:15 A.M.Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Old Capitol Museum komencentralms.org | (601) 932-3999

APRIL 18, 8:00 A.M.Sweetness Fight Against Obesity 5kWalter Payton Recreation and Wellness Center

APRIL 23, 11:00 A.M. Ultimate Fashion Show and Champagne Brunch benefitting Diabetes Foundation of Mississippi Country Club of Jackson (601) 957-7878

MAY 1Trustmark Chamber Challenge Golf Tournament Lake Caroline madisonthecitychamber.com

FESTIVALS APRIL 3-4 & 11-12KidFest! Freedom Ridge Park kidfestridgeland.com

APRIL 9 - 12Crossroads Film Festival Malco Grandview Cinemacrossroadsfilmfestival.com

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Dry land’s misfits find purpose and direction 28 days at a time as the steady hands of a towboat due for the Port of New Orleans. See BARGE at the Crossroads Film Festival on April 11 at 3:10 p.m.


APRIL 10, 9:00 A.M.Eudora Welty’s106th Birthday CelebrationEudora Welty House and Museum(601) 353-7762

APRIL 14Township Jazz Festival Township at Colony Park townshipjazzfestival.com

APRIL 18Arts on the Green St. Andrew’s Episcopal School artsonthegreen.info

APRIL 18-19Ridgeland Fine Arts Festival Renaissance at Highland Colony ridgelandartsfest.com | santesouth.com

APRIL 18, 7:30 P.M. Santé South Wine Festival benefitting Alzheimer’s Association, Mississippi ChapterRenaissance at Highland Colony santesouth.com

APRIL 24Movie Under the Stars Liberty Park

APRIL 30 - MAY 2Madison Antique Show and Sale Madison Cultural Arts Center madisonthecitychamber.com

ARTJANUARY 31-APRIL 19Civil War Era Drawings from the Becker CollectionMississippi Museum of Art msmuseumart.org | (601) 960-1515

APRIL 10 - JULY 3Eudora Welty Biennial: Classical Mississippi Mississippi Museum of Art msmuseumart.org | (601) 960-1515

APRIL 14, 6:00 Fused Glass with Jennifer ThomasMississippi Craft Center (601) 856-7546

MUSICAPRIL 4, 9:00 P.M. Honey Island Swamp Band w/ Mississippi Rail CompanyDuling Hall ardenland.net | (601) 292-7999

APRIL 10, 9:00 P.M.The Burning Bales with Jason Turner & Jacquelynn PiltcherHal and Mal’s ardenland.net | (601) 292-7999

APRIL 12, NOON TO 9:00 P.M. Zoo Blues Jackson Zoo jacksonzoo.org/events

APRIL 14, 7:30 P.M.Gov’t Mule Thalia Mara Hall ardenland.net | (601) 292-7999

APRIL 19, 2:00 (3RD SUNDAY EACH MONTH) Mississippi Old Time Music Society Mississippi Craft Center (601) 942-7335

APRIL 19, 8:00 P.M. Sam BakerDuling Hall ardenland.net | (601) 292-7999

APRIL 23, 7:30 P.M.MarchfourthDuling Hall ardenland.net | (601) 292-7999

APRIL 24, 9:00 P.M.Wait for the Ricochet: Tribute to the Music of Deep Purple Duling Hallardenland.net | (601) 292-7999

MAY 1, 9:00 P.M. Neutral Milk Hotel Hal and Mal’s ardenland.net | (601) 292-7999

APRIL 22, 8:00 P.M. JJ Grey & MOFRO with FirekidHal and Mal’s ardenland.net | (601) 292-7999

APRIL 2015 | 45

MAY 4, 8:00 P.M.Wishbone AshDuling Hallardenland.net | (601) 292-7999

MAY 5, 2:30 P.M. Dweezil Zappa Guitar Masterclass - Dweezilla on the RoadDuling Hallardenland.net | (601) 292-7999

MAY 4, 7:15 P.M.Wishbone Ash Duling Hall dulinghall.com | (601) 292-7999

MAY 5, 7:30 P.M.Zappa Plays Zappa Duling Hallardenland.net | (601) 292-7999

MAY 7, 7:30 P.M.Thacker Mountain Radio Hour featuring Willie Sugarcapps In Concert Duling Hallardenland.net | (601) 292-7999

THEATRE, OPERA & BALLETAPRIL 14-19 “33 Variations”New Stage Theatrenewstagetheatre.com

APRIL 26, 2:00 P.M. CoppéliaThalia Mara Hallballetms.com

APRIL 27, 5:30 P.M.Mississippi Symphony Orchestra presents Composer’s ForumPerforming in an open forum MSO presents, new orchestral compositions of chosen college and university student composers from Belhaven University, Mississippi College and Jackson State University.

BOOK SIGNINGS &

READINGS

APRIL 2, 5:00 P.M. & 5:30 P.M.Pasture Art by Marlin BartonLemuria Books lemuriabooks.com

APRIL 4, 1:00 P.M. Walter & Me: Standing in the Shadow of Sweetness by Eddie PaytonLemuria Books lemuriabooks.com

APRIL 7, 3:30 P.M.Seeds of Freedom: The Peaceful Integration of Huntsville, Alabama by Hester BassLemuria Books lemuriabooks.com

APRIL 7, 5:00 P.M. & 5:30 P.M.The Teeth of the Souls by Steve Yates Lemuria Books lemuriabooks.com

APRIL 8, 4:30 P.M. The Thickety: The Whispering Trees by J.A. White

APRIL 11, 1:00 P.M.Mississippi Moonshine Politics by Janice Branch TracyLemuria Books lemuriabooks.com

APRIL 13, 5:00 P.M.A Rented World by Merle Temple Lemuria Books lemuriabooks.com

APRIL 15, 5:00 P.M. & 5:30 P.M.The Wedding Circle by Ashton LeeLemuria Books lemuriabooks.com

APRIL 16, 4:00 P.M.The Way to Stay in Destiny by August ScattergoodLemuria Books lemuriabooks.com

APRIL 21, 3:00 P.M.The Bone Tree by Greg IlesLemuria Books lemuriabooks.com

APRIL 28, 5:00 P.M. & 5:30 P.M.Once in a Lifetime: Relfections of a Mississippi Frist Lady Lemuria Books lemuriabooks.com

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Liberty is fleeting; terrorism is eternal or so discovers Assistant US Attorney and widower John Ferguson while

reading an ancient manuscript purporting to be that of Thomas Jefferson’s 1784 Paris diary. Handling a perplexing new case he discovers that the political protestor he’s prosecuting may be link to a terrorist organization seemingly intent on wreaking havoc in his Jackson, Mississippi home. As a mysterious love interests suddenly appears on his doorstep he finds himself locked in a life and death struggle with a brilliant but demented revolutionary dedicated to the destruction of all Ferguson holds dear and nothing less than the eradication of the American way of life.

Jim Fraiser is the author of five works of fiction and eleven non-fiction books about the history, architecture and culture of the Deep South. He is a federal administrative law judge and adjunct law professor in Jackson, Mississippi.Ph

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BOOK SIGNING FOR

BY JIM FRAISER OF MADISON In An Enemy’s Country

Jim Fraiser, Lyndsey and Joe BlackstonMike Lanford, Jim Fraiser, Joe Blackston, Betty Rea, Judge Larry Stroud

Bethany Barksdale, Mihyang Faulks, Theresa Sullivan, Linda Wright Judge and Mrs. Ed Kerstein Jayne and George Gillespie

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Florals from Au Courant Floral

APRIL 2015 | 49

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Arbor Day has its roots in journalism by Nebraskan pioneer J. Sterling Morton. A tree and agriculture enthusiast as well as editor of the Nebraska City News, Morton used his printed forum to spread information and knowledge to his readers. Nebraska at the time was barren and branchless, and pioneers from other parts of the country shared the enthusiasm as they missed the leafy green foliage.

First proposed at a State Board of Agriculture meeting, the first ever Arbor Day was set for April 10, 1872. It was estimated that more than one million trees were planted in Nebraska on the first Arbor Day.

Arbor Day was set as an official holiday for permanent observance on April 22, 1885, Morton’s birthday, in Nebraska.

Eventually the rest of the states followed suit. Mississippi joined in the tree-trunked tradition in 1926.

Each year, we observe the holiday planting of a tree oftentimes in memory or celebration of someone or something. Sometimes, it may be overlooked. This year, take a minute and plant a tree. Pass along the celebration and tradition set in place to beautify our home.

In the words of J. Sterling Morton, “Each generation takes the earth as trustees.” Do your part this year, plant a tree and pass it on to the next trustee of our Mississippi home.

by Price Rosson

Plant a Tree this Year

CelebrateARBOR DAY!

april 2015

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